# Microsoft Windows OEM licensing fee increases

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/microsoft-windows-oem-licensing-fee-increases
> Updated: 2026-08-13T02:34:51.000Z. Sources: 23. Developments: 2.

Microsoft has reportedly increased Windows 11 OEM license fees for PC manufacturers by an average of 7% to 10%. This adjustment is noted as being higher than the single-digit increases typically seen in previous years.

The fee structure is reportedly tiered based on processor class, with higher-end CPUs facing larger absolute cost increases. While large original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) such as Dell, ASUS, and HP may see increases around 7%, smaller manufacturers could face double-digit hikes.

These rising software costs coincide with existing upward pressure on device prices caused by shortages and rising costs for hardware components, including RAM, SSDs, and motherboards. Industry analysts and executives suggest these combined costs will likely be passed on to consumers, though standard retail pricing for standalone operating systems is expected to remain unchanged.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-13: Microsoft raises Windows 11 OEM licensing fees by up to 10%

Microsoft is raising Windows 11 OEM licensing fees by 7% to 10%, a significant increase that, combined with hardware component shortages, may drive up consumer PC prices.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/microsoft-raises-windows-11-oem-licensing-fees-by-up-to-10

### 2026-08-10: Microsoft raises Windows OEM license fees for PC manufacturers

Microsoft has reportedly raised Windows 11 OEM licensing fees for PC manufacturers by 7% to 10%, compounding existing price pressures from rising RAM and SSD component costs.

21 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/microsoft-increases-windows-oem-licensing-fees-for-pc-manufacturers

---
Cite as: Microsoft Windows OEM licensing fee increases. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/microsoft-windows-oem-licensing-fee-increases